Child Abuse

Child abuse is a worldwide epidemic that is especially troubling here in the United States, where more than 3 million cases of child abuse are reported annually.

Child abuse takes on many forms, from general neglect to physical, sexual or emotional abuse and exploitation, including child sex trafficking.

The definition of child abuse involves the physical or emotional harm, injury or death of a child by a parent or caregiver. A child can be beaten, kicked, burned, whipped, be subjected to sexual violence or exposed to (or the subject of) pornography, or can be emotionally abused through rejection, shaming, humiliation or terrorizing. Neglecting a child’s basic health or safety needs can also be considered child abuse.

Exhibiting risky behaviors (Unsafe play, running in the middle of the street, etc.)

Significant or sudden change in weight (gain or loss)

Repeated physical injuries or trips to the doctor’s office or emergency room

Overdressing to cover up injuries

Loss of self-esteem or negative self-assessments

Inappropriate sexual behavior

Risk factors that could contribute to child abuse include:

Family history of domestic abuse

Parental lack of understanding of a child’s needs

Social isolation

Substance abuse

Poverty, unemployment or other socioeconomic disadvantages

Lack of cohesiveness within the family structure

Domestic violence in the home

Parental stress or distress, including depression and other mental health issues

Community violence

Negative interactions between parent and child

Children who are abused should be secured from further abuse through the help of law enforcement or child-welfare services. Work with licensed mental health therapists, pediatricians and other health specialists is encouraged.

Adults in Nebraska are required, under state law, to report any instance of child abuse that they witness. There are a variety of toll-free hotlines available to report child abuse cases, including: